She wrote: "I wish Darcy was my dog but she isn't : ( sorry daily mail! Was just walking her xx @sophiesumner @PinkDarcyDog.

"I don't have a dog. @PinkDarcyDog is pink because her owner is raising money for breast cancer...#factcheckingtakesfiveminutes."

Although "animal-friendly" vegetable dye is believed to have been used to colour Darcy, some critics have claimed that the procedure could still have a detrimental effect on the pet.

In a statement released following the Watson story, PETA said: "Dyeing a companion animal's fur causes the animal stress and can lead to complications or allergic reactions that endanger the animal's health.

"Our dogs and cats love us regardless of how we look; we should extend the same kindness to them."